The Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Paul Skenes continues to impress in his first season in the majors in the 3-2 win over the Miami Marlins while also etching his name in the franchise’s history books.
Skenes finished the game by allowing one run and six hits while striking out nine batters in six innings. He now has 151 strikeouts in 2024, which marks a new Pirates record for strikeouts by a rookie. Cy Blanton set the previous record of 142 in 1935.
Additionally, Skenes is now only the fourth rookie in MLB history to have 150 strikeouts in 20 or fewer starts.
“I can’t think of anybody I’ve seen that’s been that strikeout-heavy, especially early in their career,” Pirates manager Derek Shelton said after the game. “I’ve watched guys that have done it that have been elite pitchers throughout their careers, but I don’t know that I remember anybody being a rookie that has been like that.”
Paul Skenes has been a rare bright spot for the Pirates in an otherwise disappointing season. Drafted with the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, Skenes showed dazzling capabilities at the mound this season by making 20 starts and compiling a 10-2 record with a 2.10 ERA.
Skenes’ terrific performances earned him an All-Star nod, making him the first No. 1 pick in MLB history to get the selection in his rookie campaign.
